An accountant measures, discloses, and provides assurance about financial information that helps managers and investors to make accurate decisions on resource allocation. When looking for an ideal accountant, it is very essential to consider the personal traits of the individuals as well as their professional skills. They should be able to provide solid financial advice that promotes the general growth of the business, in addition to being trustworthy individuals.
Referrals
Referrals are among the best ways of finding trustworthy accountants. The best people to get referrals from are professionals within a similar field. Interaction with the local business communities during business-related events would provide all the appropriate information required. Referrals ensure that the hired individual is of character and exhibits quality performance.
Online Search
The internet comes in handy in the hiring process. It has detailed information on a good number of accountants and various accounting companies. The information could feature the works done by these accountants as well as their approach when dealing with issues. Carefully analyzing the information provided by these resources can give a business owner an idea of what to expect from the accountants. From there the owner can figure out which accountants are worth hiring, and can work well with the current state of the business.
Personal Interaction
Just because someone is perceived to be of good character does not mean that he/she can handle matters related to money well. In-depth interaction with an accountant would give the business owner a hit of how well an individual is likely to handle his financial affairs. The interaction is also a good way of determining whether an accountant matches the exact standards set by the business owner. This would place the owner in a position to assess the information obtained from the referrals; sometimes what may seem good for one might not please another.
Interviews
Interviews are a suitable way of assessing the credentials and skills of employees. The business owner should conduct a thorough interviewing process on the candidates. The interview should review on all aspects of the lives of the candidate, from their family details to their life experiences. This process requires strict keenness because a lot of private and personal information is usually entrusted to the accountants.
Personality Evaluation
The business owner should make sure that he/she entrusts the individual at a personal level before trusting the accountant at a professional level. Settling for a very formal and stiff collar individual is not advisable because such people may not give well-rounded advice. The key factor every business owner should look for is someone he/she can go with for lunch. The individual should be free and open but incapable of sharing discreet information about the business.
Hiring a good accountant would benefit a business owner at a professional level as well as a personal level. Trustworthy accountants should be able to diligently manage cash flow, plan for growth, assess risks, and keep books and files in order. They should also assist business owners to make sound judgments and distinguish between the business and their personal finances.
Sarah writes on behalf of a number of successful businesses in the South West including Drummond LLP bookkeeper Plymouth, Drummond LLP strive to deliver excellence and their service extends to the South West region. If you need a bookkeeper in Devon or Cornwall – Trust Drummond LLP to take care of all of your accountancy needs.
